Projection device projection system, and image obtainment method

ABSTRACT

A projector ( 1 ) includes a template memory ( 5 ), the template memory storing beforehand, for example data of template images made of only ruled lines. A displaying unit ( 6 ) of the projector ( 1 ) projects template images to a screen (S). A digital camera unit ( 8 ) carries out imaging of characters, etc., that are written on the screen (S), together with projected template images. A CPU ( 2 ) sends data of the image that is carried out imaging, to a PC ( 100 ). The PC ( 100 ) receives the image data, and stores it to a storing unit ( 103 ).

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a projection device, a projectionsystem, and an image obtainment method.

BACKGROUND ART

Conventionally, documents stored in personal computers as data, namely,documents made of characters and charts, etc., are projected expanded ona screen by a projector, in a presentation for describing projects andmerchandise. There are projectors having a structure of converting toprojection light, image information of documents output from thepersonal computer, as an image signal, using image converters such asliquid crystal and Micro-Mirror Array.

In recent years, due to the miniaturization of projectors, meetings areoften carried out using projectors. In that case, by using a white boardas a screen for projection, comments and underline can be directlywritten down on the white board by a marker, and charts can be createdon the whiteboard so as organize a discussion. As this kind ofprojector, a presentation system using a camera installed in theprojector is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application No. H11-305335,FIG. 1.

In a case where charts are created on a whiteboard during meetings, thebelow methods can be thought of.

-   -   (1) Ruled lines are drawn by a marker, and characters, etc., in        a frame are also written in by a marker, to a whiteboard.    -   (2) Ruled lines created by a personal computer is projected by a        projector, and characters, etc., in a frame are written in by a        marker, to a whiteboard.    -   (3) Ruled lines created by a personal computer is projected by a        projector, and characters, etc., in a frame are written in by        input operation of the personal computer.

However, with method (1), it takes time to draw the ruled lines. Withmethod (2), it is necessary to start up a special application softwareto draw the ruled lines using the personal computer. With method (3), aplurality of participants surround the whiteboard and create charts,etc., holding markers, and thus can not participate in the discussion,and workability of directly writing down a chart on the screen becomeslow.

The present invention has been made in consideration of the above, andthe object of the present invention is to provide a projection deviceand an image obtainment method that is possible to elevate workability.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

A projection device according to a first aspect of the presentinvention, projects images on a screen (S), and comprises:

a projection unit (6) which projects images on the screen based onprovided image data;

storing units (5, 21) which store data for generating template imagesthat have shapes set beforehand, and

a control unit (2) which obtains data for generating template images(T1, T2, T3) from the storing units (5, 21), provides the generatedimage data based on the obtained data to said projection unit (6), andprojects the template images to said projection unit (6).

By this kind of structure, workability of directly writing down a charton the screen can be elevated.

A projection system according to a second aspect of the presentinvention, projects images on a screen (S), and comprises:

-   -   projection devices (1, 51) which project the images on the        screen (S);    -   an image storing device (100) which stores data of images that        are projected to the screen (S); wherein    -   the projecting devices (1, 51) comprise:        -   a projection unit (6) which projects images based on the            provided image data to the screen (S);        -   storing units (5, 21) which store data of template images            (T1, T2, T3) where the shapes are pre-set;        -   an imaging unit (8) which carries out imaging of the screen            (S), and        -   a sending unit (9) which sends data; and the image storing            device (100) comprises:        -   a storing unit (103) which stores data of document images            that are projected to the screen (S), and        -   a control unit (101) which extracts data of the document            image from the storing unit (103), sends the extracted image            data to the projection devices (1, 51), receives data of            image sent from the projection devices (1, 51), and stores            data corresponding it to data of the document image to the            storing unit (103).

An image obtainment method according to a third aspect of the presentinvention projects images on a screen, and comprises:

-   -   a step of projecting a template image where a shape is pre-set,        to the screen, and    -   a step of carrying out imaging of the screen where the template        image is projected.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a structure of a projection device shown inthe first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a structure of a projector and apersonal computer according to the first embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a line-up template as an example of atemplate image stored in a template memory of the projector.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a conference note proceeding as an exampleof a template image stored in the same template memory.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a global map template as an example of atemplate image stored in the same template memory.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing operation of the projector in the firstembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a structure of a projection device shown inthe second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a structure of a projector and apersonal computer according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 9A is a diagram showing ruled line data, which is template datathat is stored in the memory card of the projector.

FIG. 9B is a diagram showing cell data, which is template data that isstored in the memory card of the projector.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing operation of the projector shown in thesecond embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing content of ruled line transferringprocessing by the projector.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing content of designation positiondetermination processing by the projector.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing content of ruled line attribute changingprocessing by the projector.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing content of frame attribute changingprocessing by the projector.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing content of ruled line adding processingby the projector.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference tothe drawings.

First Embodiment

The projection system of this embodiment, projects template images, suchas images with only ruled lines, on a screen, and reads characters,etc., which are handwritten in the projected template image on thescreen, by imaging.

The projection system, comprises a projector 1 and a personal computer(PC) 2, which are connected to each other via an RGB cable 200 and a USBcable 300.

The projector 1 is for projecting images of charts during presentations,etc., and has a built-in digital camera for carrying out imaging of thescreen S, such as a white board, etc.

The projector 1 comprises a projection unit 1 a, and an imaging unit 1b, at the front side of the body. The projection unit 1 a is forprojecting display images, and includes optical systems, such asprojection lenses for projecting display images. The imaging unit 1 bincludes optical systems, such as imaging lenses for carrying outimaging of the screen S.

As shown in FIG. 2, the projector 1 comprises a CPU 2, a ROM 3, a RAM 4,a template memory 5, a display unit 6, a key input unit 7, and a digitalcamera unit 8.

The template memory 5 is for storing data for generating templateimages. Template images are images, where the shape is pre-set. Thetemplate memory 5 stores various data for generating template images,such as a lineup template T1 shown in FIG. 3, a conference noteproceeding template T2 shown in FIG. 4, and a global map template T3shown in FIG. 5.

The display unit 6 is for projecting document images of documents(documents having characters and charts, etc.) that are output from thePC 2, and template images, on the screen S. The display unit 6 includesa light source, image converters, a drive circuit, and an optical system(Not shown).

The light source emits light, such as a krypton light. The imageconverters are for converting the light of the light source to aprojection light, and comprises liquid crystal elements and Micro-MirrorArray, etc.

The drive circuit activates the image converters, in response to RBGsignals input from an input terminal 18.

The optical systems include imaging lenses, etc., at the projection unit1 a.

The key input unit 7 comprises an operation button for displayingtemplate images, and an operation button for stopping the display of thetemplate images. The key input unit 7 comprises an imaging button forcarrying out imaging of the screen S as an object, by the digital cameraunit 8. The key input unit 7 sends operation information to the CPU 2,when these buttons are pressed by the user.

The key input unit 7 comprises an operation button, etc., fordesignating attributes.

The digital camera unit 8 carries out imaging of the screen S as theobject, by the imaging button of a key input unit 15 being pressed. Adigital camera unit 16 comprises an optical system, an image pickupdevice, and an image data signal compression processing circuit (Notshown). The optical system includes imaging lenses, etc., at the imagingunit 1 b . The image pickup device is for photoelectrical transferringan optical image focused by the optical system to an image signal, andcomprises a CMOS sensor and a CCD, etc. The image data signalcompression processing circuit compresses digital signals that aredigitalized, being output from the image pickup device.

The ROM 3 stores programs. The CPU 2 controls each above described unitthat describe the RAM 4 as an operation memory, in accordance with theprogram stored in the ROM 3. Concretely, the CPU 2 controls the displayunit 6 to project the document image on the screen S. When operationinformation indicating that the operation button for displaying thetemplate is pressed, is sent from the key input unit 7, the CPU 2receives this operation information from the key input unit 7 as aprojection instruction, and projects the template image on the screen S.When operation information indicating that the imaging button ispressed, is sent from the key input unit 7, the CPU 2 receives theoperation information as imaging instructions, and controls the digitalcamera unit 8 to carry out imaging of the screen 8, in accordance withthe operation information. By this, the CPU 2 obtains an image thatincludes recorded information recorded in the documents and the screenS, and outputs the obtained image to the PC100.

The projector 1 comprises an image input terminal 9, and a USB terminal10.

The RGB cable 3 is connected to the image input terminal 9. The imageinput terminal 9 is a terminal for being provided the RBG signal fromthe PC 100, and is provided at an input image processing circuit, whichis not shown. The input image processing circuit includes an A/Dconverter, etc.

The USB cable 300 is connected to the USB terminal 10. The USB terminal10 is for sending image data obtained by the projector 1 carrying outimaging, and is provided at a communication interface circuit for USB,not shown in the drawings, which is connected to the CPU 2.

The PC 100 provides data of documents that are to be projected to thescreen S, to the projector 1, and comprises a CPU 101, a RAM 102, astoring device 103, an input device 104, and a display device 105.

The input device 104 comprises a plurality of keys, and a mouse, etc.,which is connected to the body. When the user operates the input device104, he input device 104 sends operation information indicating theoperation content of the user, to the CPU 101.

The display device 105 displays document images read from the storingdevice, and displays images sent from the projector 1, and comprises aLCD, and the drive circuit, etc., thereof.

The storing device 103 comprises a hard disk, etc, having a relativelylarge storage capacity, and stores a presentation program for creatingand editing documents for presentation. The storing device 103 storesdata of documents made up of characters and charts, for projecting tothe screen S, as a document file.

The CPU 101 controls each part of the PC 100, in accordance with theprogram stored in the storing device 103. The CPU 101 uses the RAM 102as an operation memory. When the operation information indicating thatdata of a document is to be sent, is sent from the input device 104, theCPU 101 sends data of the document to the projector 1. When the imagedata is sent from the projector 1, the CPU 101 stores correlating theimage data sent from the projector 1, and sent document data, at thestoring unit 103.

The PC 100 comprises an output terminal 106 for RBG signals, and a USBterminal 107. The RGB cable 200 is connected to the output terminal 106.The output terminal 106 is provided at the image signal processingcircuit, not shown in the drawings, which is connected to the CPU 101.The USB cable 300 is connected to the USB terminal 107. The USB terminal107 is provided at the communication interface circuit for USB, notshown in the drawings, which is connected to the CPU 101.

Next, operation of the projection system according to the presentembodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown inFIG. 6.

First, operations of the PC 100 will be described.

When the user designates data of a document operating the input device104, the input device 104 of the PC 100 sends the operation informationof the user to the CPU 101.

The PC 100 reads data of documents designated by the user, from thestoring device 103, and displays a document image of a predeterminedpage to the display device 105, in accordance with the operationinformation of the user,. The PC 100 outputs data of the document imagedisplayed to the display device 104, via the RGB cable 200, to theprojector 1 (Step SA1).

The PC 100 determines whether the image data is sent from the projector1 or not (Step SA2). The PC 100 constantly executes the determination byinterrupt handling.

In a case where it is determined that the image data is not sent fromthe projector 1, (Step SA2: YES), the PC 100 displays an image based onthe image data sent from the projector 1, to the display device 105. ThePC 100 stores the image data sent from the projector 1, correlating itwith data of the document image, to the storing device 103 (Step SA3).

Next, the operation of the projector 1 will be described.

The projector 1 projects document images on the screen S, based on dataof the document image output from the PC 100 (Step SB1).

The projector 1 determines whether the user operated the operationbutton for template display, based on the operation information from thekey input unit 7 (Step SB2).

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for templatedisplay is not operated by the user (Step SB2: NO), the projector 1continuously projects document images on the screen S (STEP SB1).

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for templatedisplay is operated by the user (STEP SB2: YES), the projector 1receives the operation information as a projection instruction, andreads data of the template image that correspond to the operated button,from the template memory 5 (Step SB3).

The projector 1 switches the projection image from the document image tothe template image based on the read data, and projects the templateimage to the screen S (STEP SB4).

The projector 1 determines whether imaging operation is carried out bythe user, based on the operation information from the key input unit 7(Step SB5).

In a case where the imaging button of the key input unit 7 is notpressed, the projector 1 determines that imaging operation has not beencarried out (Step SB5: NO). In this case, the projector 1 determineswhether imaging of template image has completed or not, based on theoperation information from the key input unit 7 (Step SB8).

In a case where the operation button for stopping the template displayis not pressed, the projector 1 determines that imaging of the templateimage has not been completed (Step SB8: NO). In this case, the projector1 re-determines whether imaging operation is carried out or not (StepSB5).

Here, if the imaging button of the key input unit 7 is pressed, theprojector 1 determines that imaging operation is carried out (Step SB5:YES). In this case, the projector 1 receives the operation informationas an imaging instruction, controls the digital camera unit 8, andcarries out imaging of the screen S where the template image isprojected (Step B6).

The projector 1 outputs the image data obtained by carrying out imaging,to the PC 100, via the USB cable 300 (Step SB7).

The projector 1 re-determines whether imaging of the template image iscompleted or not (Step SB8), and in a case where it is determined thatimaging of the template image has not been completed (Step SB8: NO), theprocessing of Steps SB5 to SB7 are repeatedly carried out. In this way,the projector 1 outputs image data to the PC 100 each time imagingoperation is carried out.

In a case where the operation button for stopping the template displayis pressed, the projector 1 determines that imaging of the templateimage is completed (Step SB8: YES). In this case, the projector 1switches the image from the template image to the original documentimage, and projects the document image on the screen S (Step SB9).

This operation will be described more concretely.

In a case where a plurality of participants carry out a meeting, etc.,surrounding the screen S, the participants press the operation buttonthat the key input unit 7 of the projector 1 comprises, when aconference note proceeding template T2, such as shown in FIG. 4 is to beused. When the operation button for displaying the conference noteproceeding template T2 is pressed, the projector 1 responds to theoperation information, and reads data of the conference note proceedingtemplate T2 shown in FIG. 4, from the template memory 5 (Process of StepSB2, SB3 in FIG. 6). The projector 1 projects this image on the screenS, instead of the projected document image (Process of SB4 in FIG. 6).

Next, after the participants record characters on the screen 2 with amarker, the imaging button of the key input unit 7 of the projector 1 ispressed. The projector 1 carries out imaging of the screen S, and sendsthe image data to the PC 100, in response to the imaging button beingpressed (Process of Step SB5 to SB8 in FIG. 6).

When the operation button for stopping the display of the template imageis pressed, the projector 1 projects the original document image on thescreen S, instead of the template image, in response (Process of StepSB9 in FIG. 6).

The PC 100 stores image data sent from the projector 1, correlating itwith the document, at the storing device 103 (Process of Step SA3).

In a case where the PC 100 stores image data that is sent from theprojector 1, at the storing device 103 (Step SA3), the PC 100 isstructured so that it can identify which image data corresponds to whichdocument data. For example, the PC 100 stores image data sent from theprojector 1 in an image file. The PC 100 gives a part of the name of thedata file of the document, to the file name of this image file, andstores the image file in the storing device 103.

In a case where image data concerning the same document is sent aplurality of times, the PC 100 puts branch numbers, such as “−1”, and“−2” at the end of the file name.

As described above, in the first embodiment of the present invention,for example, a template image such as an image with only ruled lines, isprojected to a screen S, and characters, etc. that are handwritten tothe screen S, using the projected template image, is obtained bycarrying out imaging.

Therefore, it is not necessary for the user to write ruled lines by amarker on the screen S (whiteboard) to make charts, etc., and timenecessary to create charts can be saved. A plurality of participants cansurround the screen S (whiteboard), and participate in a discussion,holding markers. As a result, work of creating a chart by directlywriting down on the screen S, can be improved.

It is not necessary to start a special application software by the PC100, and template images can be projected immediately.

Furthermore, if a plurality of kinds of template images are pre-storedas image data, various template images can be projected, in accordancewith a variety of uses, and usability will improve.

Because images obtained by projecting handwritten characters, etc., onhe screen S, are stored in the storing device 103, handwritteninformation written on the screen S, can be used afterwards.

In the present embodiment, because image data obtained by imaging, isstored correlated with documents, handwritten information can be easilyused.

Second Embodiment

Next, the second embodiment of present invention will be described. Aprojection system according to the second embodiment of the presentinvention is structured so that template images can be edited.

As shown in FIG.7, the projection system according to the secondembodiment of the present invention comprises a projector 51, a PC 100,and a laser pointer 400. The laser pointer 400 radiates a spot light P,and is for indicating a position on the screen S, by radiating the spotlight P on the screen S. The laser pointer 400 is used for designatingan editing position of the template image projected on the screen S.

In the second embodiment, the template images are not stored in thetemplate memory 5, but pre-stored in a memory card. The projectionsystem obtains template images from the memory card.

As shown in FIG. 8, the projector 51 comprises a throttle (not shown inthe drawings), and a card interface circuit (card I/F) 22. The throttleis for loading the memory card 21. The card I/F 22 is for inputting andoutputting data between the memory card 21.

The projector 51 and the PC 100 are connected to each other only via theRGB cable 200. In the second embodiment, the USB terminal 10 and thecommunication interface circuit is omitted.

The memory card 21 stores a plurality of template data. The templatedata is for generating template images, and includes ruled line data 21a, and cell data 21 b. The ruled line data 21 a is for generating ruledlines, and as shown in FIG. 9A, comprises coordinate data, line widthdata, color data, and line type data.

The coordinate data indicates a start point and an endpoint of aplurality of longitudinal ruled lines and horizontal ruled lines, inaccordance with the number of rows and number of columns. For example,the start point and the endpoint of ruled line K1, shown in FIG. 9A, isrespectively expressed by coordinate data (x1, y1), (x2, y2). Thecoordinate data is expressed by the number of pixels of the display unit6 of the projector. For example, if the maximum pixel of the horizontaldirection and the longitudinal direction is 800×600, the maximum valueof the coordinate data showing the start point and he endpoint of theruled line is (800,600).

The cell data 21 b is for generating cells, and as shown in FIG. 9B,comprises coordinate data, line width data, color data, and line typedata.

The coordinate data shows the start point and the endpoint of the rightto left, up and down ruled lines (Ks1 to Ks4), that form each frame (S1to Sn) of the coordinate data. For example, the cell S1 is formed byruled lines Ks1 to Ks4, and the start point and endpoint of ruled lineKs1 can be expressed by the coordinate data (x1, y1), (x2, y2). In thesame way as the coordinate data of the ruled line data 21 a, thecoordinate data of the cell data 21 b is expressed in the number ofpixels of the display unit of the projector 51.

The line width data shows the width of the ruled line that forms thecell. The color data shows the color inside of the cell. The line typedata shows the type of ruled line that forms the cell.

The key input unit 7 comprises various operation buttons. Variousfunctions, such as selection function of template, display function,function for starting editing, and function for giving instructions forediting content, etc., are allotted to the operation buttons.

The CPU 2 obtains information of a editing place that the laser pointer400 indicates, and specifies data corresponding to the editing place,based on the obtained information of the editing place. The CPU 2obtains the specified data from the memory card 21, and edits thespecified data, based on the operation information from the key inputunit 7, which indicates the editing content.

Next, operation of the projection system, according to the presentembodiment, will be described.

When the user operates the operation button of the key input unit 7, fordisplaying a template, while projecting a document, the projector 51operates in accordance with the flowchart shown in FIG. 10, in responseto the operation.

When the operation button for template selection is pressed, the CPU 2of the projector 51 obtains this operation information from the keyinput unit 7, and reads the template data of the selected template imagefrom the card memory 21, based on the obtained operation information.The CPU 2 controls the display unit 6 to project the template image onthe screen S (Step SC1).

Concretely, when the CPU 2 reads template data from the card memory 21,the CPU 2 develops in RAM 4, image data of the template, based on theread template data.

As described above, the template data comprises ruled line data 21 a,and cell data 21 b, such as shown in FIG. 9A, and FIG. 9B. The CPU 2displays ruled line K1 from (x1, y1) to (x2, y2), based on thecoordinate data of ruled line data 21 a. In the same way, the CPU 2displays ruled lines K2 to Kn, based on the coordinate data of the ruledline data 21 a. In this way, image data of the template is developed inRAM 4, and data of the template image is generated.

The CPU provides data of the generated template image to the displayunit 6. The display unit 6 projects the provided template image to thescreen S.

Next, the CPU 2 determines whether to start editing or not, based on theoperation information from the key input unit 7 (Step SC2).

In a case where the operation button for starting editing is notpressed, the CPU 2 determines that editing is not to start (Step SC2:NO). In this case, the CPU 2 waits until the operation button forstarting editing is pressed.

In a case where the operation button for stating editing is pressed, theCPU 2 determines that editing is to be started (Step SC2: YES), anddetermines the editing content, based on the operation information fromthe key input unit 7.

First, the CPU 2 determines whether the editing is ruled linetransferring, or not (Step SC3). Ruled line transferring processing isfor transferring a ruled line to a designated direction for a designatedamount.

When the operation button for “ruled line transferring” is pressed, theCPU 2 determines that the editing content is ruled line transferring(Step SC3 YES). In this case, the CPU 2 carries out ruled linetransferring processing, according to a flowchart, which will be laterdescribed (Step SC4).

After the ruled line transferring processing is completed, the CPU 2re-determines whether to start editing or not (Step SC2).

If the operation button for “ruled line transferring” is not pressed,after it is determined to start editing, the CPU 2 determines that theediting content is not ruled line transferring (Step SC5). Ruled lineattribute changing processing is for changing the attribute of a ruledline, such as width of line, color, and line type.

When the operation button for “ruled line attribute changing” ispressed, the CPU 2 determines that the editing content is ruled lineattribute changing (Step SC5: YES). In this case, the CPU 2 carries outruled line attribute changing processing, according to a flowchart,which will be later described (Step SC6).

After the ruled line attribute changing processing is completed, the CPU2 re-determines whether to start editing or not (Step SC2).

If the operation button for “ruled line attribute changing” is notpressed, after it is determined to start editing, the CPU 2 determinesthat the editing content is not ruled line attribute changing (Step SC5:NO). In this case, the CPU 2 determines whether the editing content isframe attribute changing or not (Step SC7). Frame attribute changingprocessing is for changing ruled line width that form the frame (cell),and coloring in the frame.

When the operation button for “frame attribute changing” is pressed, theCPU 2 determines that the editing content is frame attribute changing(Step SC7: YES). In this case, the CPU 2 carries out frame attributechanging processing, according to a flowchart, which will be laterdescribed (Step SC8).

After the frame attribute changing processing is completed, the CPU 2re-determines whether to start editing or not (Step SC2).

If the operation button for “frame attribute changing” is not pressed,the CPU2 determines that the editing content is not frame attributechanging (Step SC7: NO). In this case, the CPU 2 determines that theediting content is ruled line adding, and carries out ruled line addingprocessing, according to a flowchart, which will be later described(Step SC9). Ruled line adding processing is for adding ruled lines.

After carrying out these processing, the CPU 2 ends display processingof the template image, when the operation button for ending display ofthe template image is pressed.

Next, ruled line transferring processing carried out by the projector51, in Step SC4 of FIG. 10, will be described, based on the flowchartshown in FIG. 11.

The CPU 2 determines whether the operation button for starting editingis pressed or not, based on the operation information from the key inputunit 7 (Step SD1).

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for startingediting is not pressed (Step SD1: NO), the CPU 2 waits until theoperation button for starting editing is pressed.

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for startingediting is pressed (Step SD1: YES), the CPU 2 carries out designationposition determining processing, according to the flowchart shown inFIG. 12 (Step SD2).

First, the digital camera unit 8 is controlled by the CPU 2, andprojects the screen S (Step SE1). A template image is projected on thescreen S.

The CPU 2 clips a target projection area of a template image, from theimage obtained by carrying out imaging by the digital camera unit 8(Step SE2).

The CPU2 corrects trapezoid deformation of the clipped projection areaof the image, and detects the part that has the most brightness in thecorrected image area, as a radiation position of a spot light P (StepSE3).

When the radiation position of the spot light P is determined, the CPU 2converts the radiation position of the spot light P to coordinate datafor template data (Step SE4).

The CPU 2 specifies the ruled line designated by the spot light P, basedn the coordinate that indicates the radiation position of the spot lightP (Step D3 in FIG. 11).

The CPU 2 determines whether the operation button for instructingtransferring direction is pressed or not, based on the operationinformation from he key input unit 7 (Step SD4).

In a case where it is determined that the operation button forinstructing transferring direction is not pressed (Step SD4: NO), theCPU 2 waits until the operation button for instructing transferringdirection is pressed.

In a case where it is determined that the operation button forinstructing transferring direction is pressed, (Step SD4: YES), the CPU2 transfers the designated ruled line to a designated direction, for adesignated amount (Step SD5). Concretely, the CPU 2 changes coordinatedata in the ruled line data 21 a, shown in FIG. 9A, of the designatedruled line, based on the designated direction and amount.

The CPU 2 changes data corresponding to the cell data 21 b, shown inFIG. 9B, in accordance with coordinate data in the ruled line data 21 a,shown in FIG. 9A.

The CPU 2 generates a new template image, based on the changed data. Thedisplay unit 6 re-projects the generated template image to the screen S(Step SD6).

The CPU 2 determines whether the operation button for ending editing ispressed, based on the operation information from the key input unit 7(Step SD7).

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for endingediting is not pressed (Step SD7: NO), the CPU 2 once again carries outprocessing of steps SD4 to SD6.

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for endingediting is pressed (Step SD7: YES), the CPU 2 ends the ruled linetransferring processing.

Next, ruled line attribute changing processing carried out by theprojector 51, in step SC6 in FIG. 10, will be described with referenceto the flowchart shown in FIG. 13.

The CPU 2 determines whether the operation button for starting editingis pressed or not, based on the operation information from the key inputunit 7 (Step SF1).

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for startingediting is not pressed (Step SF1: NO), the CPU 2 waits until theoperation button for starting editing is pressed.

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for startingediting is pressed (Step SF1: YES), the CPU 2 carries out designationposition determination processing, according to the flowchart shown inFIG. 12 (Step SF2).

The CPU 2 specifies a ruled line designated by the user, based on acoordinate indicating the radiation position of the spot light P (StepSF3).

The CPU 2 determines whether attribute is designated or not, based onthe operation information from the key input unit 7 (Step SF4).

If the operation button for attribute designation is not pressed, theCPU 2 determines that the attribute has not been designated yet (StepSF4: NO). In this case, the CPU 2 waits until the attribute isdesignated.

If the operation button for attribute designation is pressed, the CPU 2determines that the attribute is designated (Step SF4: YES), anddetermines whether the attribute to be changed is “width” of ruled lineor not, based on the operation information from the key input unit 7(Step SF5).

If the operation button for designating “width” of ruled line, as theattribute to be changed, is pressed, the CPU 2 determines thatinstruction for changing “width” of ruled line is carried out (Step SF5:YES). In this case, the CPU 2 determines whether the operation buttonfor selecting “width” of ruled line is pressed or not, based on theoperation information from the key input unit 7 (Step SF6).

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for selecting“width” of ruled line has not been pressed (Step SF6: NO), the CPU 2waits until the operation button for selecting “width” of ruled line ispressed.

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for selecting“width” of ruled line is selected (Step SF6: YES), the CPU 2 changes thedesignated ruled line width to a selected width (Step SF7). Concretely,the CPU 2 changes the width data of the designated ruled line in theruled line data 21 a shown in FIG. 9A.

In accordance with the change in width data of the ruled line data 21 ashown in FIG. 9A, the CPU 2 changes data corresponding to the cell data21 b shown in FIG. 9B.

The CPU 2 generates a new template image, based on the changed ruledline data 21 a. The display unit 6 re-projects the generated templateimage on the screen S (Step SF13).

Next, after the attribute is designated, in a case where it isdetermined that the operation button for selecting “width” of ruled lineis not pressed (Step SF5: NO), the CPU 2 determines whether theattribute to be changed is color of ruled line or not, based on theoperation information from the key input unit 7 (Step SF8).

In a case where it is determined that the operation button designating“color” of ruled line is pressed (Step SF8: YES), the CPU 2 determinesthat instructions for changing the “color” of ruled line is carried out,and determines whether the operation button for selecting “color” ofruled line is pressed or not (Step SF9). In a case where it isdetermined that the operation button for selecting “color” of ruled lineis not pressed (Step SF9: NO), the CPU 2 waits until the operationbutton for selecting the “color” of ruled line is pressed.

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for selectingthe “color” of ruled line is selected (Step SF9: YES), the CPU 2 changesthe color of the designated color to a selected color (Step SF10).Concretely, the CPU 2 changes color data of the designated ruled line inthe ruled line data 21 a shown in FIG. 9A.

In accordance with the change of color data in the ruled line data 21 ashown in FIG. 9A, the CPU 2 changes data that corresponds to cell data21 b shown in FIG. 9B.

The CPU 2 generates a new template image, based on the changed data. Thedisplay unit 6 re-projects the generated template image on the screen S(STEP SF13).

In a case where it is determined that the operation button fordesignating the “color” of ruled line is not pressed (Step SF8: NO), theCPU 2 determines that instructions for changing “line type” of line iscarried out.

In this case, the CPU 2 determines whether the operation button forselecting “line type” of ruled line is pressed or not, based on theoperation information from the key input unit 7 (Step SF11). In a casewhere it is determined that the operation button for selecting “linetype” of ruled line is not pressed (Step SF11: NO), the CPU 2 waitsuntil the operation button for selecting the “line type” of ruled lineis pressed.

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for selecting“line type” is pressed (Step SF11: YES), The CPU 2 changes the line typeof the designated ruled line to a selected line type (Step SF12).Concretely, the CPU 2 changes the line type data of the designated ruledline, in the ruled line data 21 a shown in FIG. 9A.

In accordance with the change of line type data in the ruled line data21 a shown in FIG. 9A, the CPU 2 changes data that corresponds to thecell data 21 b shown in FIG. 9B.

The CPU 2 generates a new template image, based on the changed data. Thedisplay unit 6 re-projects the generated template image on the screen S(Step SF13).

The CPU 2 ends the ruled line attribute changing processing, after thetemplate image is re-projected on the screen S.

Next, frame attribute changing processing carried out by the projector51, in Step SC8 in FIG. 10, will be described with reference to theflowchart shown in FIG. 14.

The CPU 2 determines whether the operation button for starting editingis pressed or not, based on the operation information from the key inputunit 7 (Step SG1).

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for startingediting is not pressed (Step SG1: NO), the CPU 2 waits until theoperation button for starting editing is pressed.

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for startingediting is pressed (Step SG1: YES), the CPU 2 carries out designationposition determining processing, according to the flow chart shown inFIG. 12 (Step SG2).

The CPU 2 specifies a frame designated by the spot light P of the laserpointer 400, from the projected template image, based on the coordinateindicating the radiation position of the spot light P (Step SG3).

The CPU 2 determines whether the attribute to be changed is designatedor not, based on the operation information from the key input unit 7(STEP SG4).

If the operation button for attribute designation is not pressed, theCPU 2 determines that the attribute to be changed has not beendesignated yet (Step SG4: NO). In this case, the CPU 2 waits until theattribute is designated.

If the operation button for attribute designation is pressed, the CPU 2determines that the attribute to be changed has been designated (StepSG4: YES). In this case, the CPU 2 determines whether instructions forchanging “width” of the frame has been carried out or not (STEP SG5).

If the operation button for designating “width” of the frame is pressed,the CPU 2 determines that instructions for changing the “width” of theframe that forms the frame, has been carried out (Step SG5: YES). Inthis case, the CPU 2 determines whether the operation button forselecting “width” of ruled line is pressed or not (Step SG6).

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for selecting“width” of ruled line is not pressed (Step SG6: NO), the CPU 2 waitsuntil the operation button for selecting “width” of ruled line ispressed.

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for selecting“width” of ruled line is pressed (Step SG6: YES), the CPU 2 changes thewidth of the ruled line that forms the designated frame to a selectedwidth (Step SG7). Concretely, the CPU 2 changes the width data of theup, down, right, and left ruled line that form the designated frame, inthe cell data 21 b shown in FIG. 9B.

The CPU 2 generates a new template image, based on the changed data. Thedisplay unit 6 re-projects the generated template image to the screen S(Step SG10).

Next, after the operation button for attribute designation is pressed,in a case where it is determined that the operation button fordesignating “width” of frame is not pressed (Step SG8: YES), the CPU 2determines that instructions for changing “color for coloring in” theframe is carried out. In this case, the CPU 2 determines whether theoperation button for selecting the color for coloring in, is pressed ornot (Step SG8).

In a case where the CPU 2 determines that the operation button forselecting the color for coloring in, is not pressed (Step SG8: NO), theCPU 2 waits until the operation button for selecting the color forcoloring in, is pressed.

In a case where it is determined that the operation button for selectingthe color for coloring in, is pressed (Step SG8: YES), the CPU 2 changesthe color for coloring in, in the designate frame, to a selected color(step SG9). Concretely, the CPU 2 changes the color data of thedesignated frame, in the ruled line data 21 b shown in FIG. 9B.

The CPU 2 generates a new template image based on the changed data. Thedisplay unit 6 re-projects the generated template image to the screen S(Step SG10).

The CPU 2 ends the frame attribute change processing, afterre-projecting the generated template image to the screen S.

Next, ruled line adding processing carried out by the projector 51, instep S9 of FIG. 10, will be described with reference to the flowchartshown in FIG. 15.

The CPU 2 determines whether start point instruction has been completedor not, based on the operation information from the key input unit 7(Step SH1).

If the operation button for instructing the start point is not pressed,the CPU 2 determines that start point indication has not been completed(Step SH1: NO). In this case, the CPU 2 waits until the operation buttonfor instructing the start point is pressed.

If the operation button instructing the start point is pressed, the CPU2 determines that start point instruction is completed (Step SH1: YES).In this case, the CPU 2 carries out designation position determinationprocessing, according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 12 (Step SH2).Then, the CPU 2 stores the obtained coordinate as the coordinate of thestart point, to the RAM 4.

The CPU 2 determines whether endpoint instruction has been completed ornot, based on the operation information from the key input unit 7 (StepSH3).

If the operation button for instructing endpoint is not pressed, the CPU2 determines that endpoint instruction has not been completed (Step SH3:NO). In this case, the CPU 2 waits until the operation button forinstructing endpoint is pressed.

If the operation button for instructing endpoint is pressed, the CPU 2determines that endpoint instruction is completed (Step SH3: YES). Inthis case, the CPU 2 carries out designation position determinationprocessing, according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 12 (Step SH4). TheCPU 2 stores the obtained coordinate as the coordinate of the endpoint,to the RAM 4.

The CPU 2 adds new line data that includes the designated start pointand endpoint to the ruled line data 21 a of the projected template image(Step SH5). The CPU 2 adds new line data, also to the cell data 21 b, inaccordance with the addition of the ruled line data 21 a.

The CPU 2 generates a new template image, based on the changed data. Thedisplay unit 6 re-projects the generated template image to the screen S(Step SH6).

The CPU 2 ends the ruled line adding processing, after re-projecting thetemplate image to the screen S.

As described above, the projector 51 of the present embodiment can edittemplate images.

Therefore, in the same way as the first embodiment, an effect of savingtime in creating charts is gained, and a requested template image can beeasily obtained.

Template images are retained as the above described template data (ruledline data 21 a and cell data 21 b), and the template image is projectedbased on the template data. Therefore, memory capacity necessary forsaving template images can be made smaller, and more template images canbe stored.

Various embodiments are possible for carrying out the present invention,and is not limited to the above embodiments.

For example, in the first embodiment, the operation button fordisplaying a template corresponds to the template image. However, thekey input unit 7 may comprise a switching button for switching templateimages, and the CPU 2 may switch template images, everytime theswitching button is pressed. By this kind of structure, selection of arequested template image can be carried out with fewer switchingbuttons.

In the second embodiment, processing of “ruled line transferring”,“ruled line attribute changing”, and “frame attribute changing” aredescribed as the editing processing. However, the editing processing isnot limited to these. For example, editing processing, such as erasing,etc., ruled lines may be carried out.

In the second embodiment, ruled lines and frames of the template imageare selected one by one, to carry out various editing. However, ruledlines and frames selected as an editing target, is not limited to one.For example, by designating number of lines and number of rows, aplurality of ruled lines and frames can be designated. The entiretemplate image may be selected, and the entire template image may beedited at once.

In the second embodiment, a case where template data for generatingtemplate image in a chart form is stored in the memory card 21 isdescribed. However, template data for generating template images made ofonly horizontal ruled lines and longitudinal ruled lines, namely onlyruled line data 21 a may be stored in the memory card 21. The data maybe stored in another recording medium, other than the memory card 21.

In the second embodiment, the laser pointer 400 is used for designatingspecific ruled lines and frames. However, an operation button may beused instead of the laser pointer 400, and a structure where ruled linesand frames are designated by an operation button, is possible. In thiscase, the projector 51 does not have to comprise the digital camera unit8.

Editing processing may be carried out by various methods. For example,every time the operation button is pressed, ruled lines and frames thatare editing choices may be switched. The switched ruled lines and framesmay be expressed using color, and template images may be sequentiallyupdated, and projected. Ruled lines and frames may be designated by animage such as a mouse pointer being displayed superposed on the templateimage, and moving it by an operation button which designates direction.

In the second embodiment, editing of an existing template image isdescribed. However, a new template image may be generated, by comprisinga structure that has the user designate a number of ruled lines and anumber of rows, and width of the ruled line, without using the existingtemplate image.

The projector 51 may store a storage button for designating storing tothe memory card 21 of a newly created template image, after the templateimage is edited.

The second embodiment may be structured in the same way as the firstembodiment, so that the projector 51 outputs the image data taken by thedigital camera unit 8 to the PC 100, and the PC 100 stores the imagedata output from the projector 51 to the storing device 103.

The digital camera unit 8 in the first embodiment and the secondembodiment, are not limited to being built-in to the projector 1 and 51,and a general purpose digital camera may be used. In this case, if theprojector 1 and 51 and the digital camera comprise for example a USBcommunication interface, data communication can be carried out by a USBcable, and if the projector 1 and 51 and the digital camera comprise aradio communication interface, data communication by radio becomespossible.

The patent application claims the Paris Convention Priority based onJapanese Patent Application No. 2002-369133 filed with the Japan PatentOffice on Dec. 20, 2002, the complete disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference.

1. A projection device which projects images on a screen (S),comprising: a projection unit (6) which projects images on the screenbased on provided image data; storing units (5, 21) which store data forgenerating template images that have shapes set beforehand, and acontrol unit (2) which obtains data for generating template images (T1,T2, T3) from said storing units (5, 21), provides the generated imagedata based on the obtained data to said projection unit (6), andprojects the template images to said projection unit (6).
 2. Theprojection device according to claim 1, wherein: said storing units (5,21) store pixel information of said template images (T1, T2, T3) as datafor generating said template images (T1, T2, T3); and said control unit(2) obtains the pixel pattern information from said storing units (5,21), and generates said template images (T1, T2, T3) to provide to theprojection unit (6), based on the obtained pixel pattern information. 3.The projection device according to claim 1, wherein: said storing units(5, 21) store template data (21 a, 21 b) for drawing ruled lines andgenerating said template images (T1, T2, T3) , as data for generatingsaid template images (T1, T2, T3), and said control unit (2) obtainssaid template data (21 a, 21 b) from said storing units (5, 21), drawsruled lines based on the obtained template data (21 a, 21 b), andgenerates data of said template images (T1, T2, T3) to be provided tosaid projection unit (6).
 4. The projection device according to claim 3,comprising: an indication unit (400) which indicates editing position ofsaid template images (T1, T2, T3) projected on said screen (S), and aninput unit (7) which inputs editing content of data that corresponds tosaid editing position, based on the obtained editing position, whereinsaid control unit (2) obtains information of editing position indicatedby said indication unit (400), specifies data corresponding to saidediting position based on the obtained editing position, obtains thespecified data from the storing units (5, 21), and edits the obtaineddata based on the editing content that the input unit (7) input.
 5. Theprojection device according to claim 4, wherein: said storing units (5,21) store ruled line data (21 a) that define ruled lines that are to bedrawn, as said template data, and said control unit (2) specifies ruledline data (21 a) that corresponds to said editing position, based on theobtained editing position information, and obtains the specified ruledline data (21 a) from the storing units (5, 21).
 6. The projectiondevice according to claim 5, wherein: said storing units (5, 21) storeruled line data (21 a) including ruled line attribute information thatindicates the attribute of the ruled line that is to be drawn, and saidcontrol unit (2) edits ruled line attribute information including saidrule line data (21 a), based on the editing content that said input unit(7) input.
 7. The projection device according to claim 4, wherein: saidstoring units (5, 21) store cell data (21 b) that defines a cell that issurrounded by ruled lines that form said template images (T1, T2, T3) assaid template data, and said control unit (2) specifies cell data (21 b)that corresponds to said editing position, based on the obtained editingposition information, and obtains the specified cell data (21 b) fromsaid storing units (5, 21).
 8. The projection device according to claim7, wherein: said storing units (5, 21) store cell data (21 b) thatinclude cell attribute information indicating attribute of cells, andsaid control unit (2) obtains cell attribute information including saidcell data (21 b) from said storing units (5, 21), edits the obtainedcell attribute information, based on the editing content that said inputunit (7) input, and stores the edited cell data (21 b) to said storingunits (5, 21).
 9. The projection device according to claim 4, wherein:said indication unit (400) is for radiating spot light to said screen(S), and comprises an imaging unit (8) which carries out imaging of saidscreen (S), and said control unit (2) controls the imaging unit (8) tocarry out imaging of the screen (S) where said template images (T1, T2,T3) are projected, and said spot light is radiated, obtains positionrelationship of the spot light of said indication unit (400) and saidtemplate images (T1, T2, T3) from the image obtained by said imagingunit (8) carrying out imaging, and obtains editing position informationof said template images (T1, T2, T3) based on the obtained positionrelationship.
 10. A projection device which projects images on a screen(S), comprising: a projection unit (6) which projects images based onprovided image data to said screen (S); storing units (5, 21) whichstore data for generating template images that have shapes setbeforehand; an imaging unit (8) which carries out imaging of said screen(S); a command reception unit (7) which receives commands forcontrolling said projection unit (6) and said imaging unit (8), and acontrol unit (2) which provides data for generating template images (T1,T2, T3) stored in said storing units (5, 21), to said projection unit(6), in accordance with a projection command that said command receptionunit (7) received, projects said template images (T1, T2, T3) to saidprojection unit (6), and controls said imaging unit (8) to carry outimaging of said screen (S), in accordance with an imaging command thatsaid command reception unit (7) received.
 11. A projection system whichprojects images on a screen (S), comprising: projection devices (1, 51)which projects the images on said screen (S); an image storing device(100) which stores data of images that are projected to said screen (S);wherein said projecting devices (1, 51) comprise: a projection unit (6)which projects images based on the provided image data to said screen(S); storing units (5, 21) which store data of template images (T1, T2,T3) where the shapes are pre-set; an imaging unit (8) which carries outimaging of said screen (S), and a sending unit (9) which sends data; andsaid image storing device (100) comprises: a storing unit (103) whichstores data of document images that are projected to said screen (S),and a control unit (101) which extracts data of said document image fromsaid storing unit (103), sends the extracted image data to theprojection devices (1, 51), receives data of image sent from theprojection devices (1, 51), and stores data corresponding it to data ofsaid document image to said storing unit (103).
 12. An image obtainmentmethod which projects images on a screen, comprising: a step ofprojecting a template image, where a shape is pre-set to said screen,and a step of carrying out imaging of said screen, where said templateimage is projected.
 13. The image obtainment method according to claim12, wherein said step of projecting said template image to said screenfurther comprises: a step of storing data of the template image to beprojected to said screen beforehand, and a step of extracting saidstored data of the template image, and projecting it to said screen.